Your first mortgage doesn’t have to feel like a foreign language.

Start with your full housing budget

Think beyond principal and interest. Property taxes, homeowners insurance, mortgage insurance, HOA dues, utilities, repairs and maintenance can all affect affordability.

Review credit and cash

Understand your credit profile and how much cash you want to reserve after the transaction. Closing costs and prepaid items are separate from the down payment.

Compare loan scenarios

Do not compare rates alone. Look at rate, APR, points or credits, lender charges, mortgage insurance, cash to close and monthly payment.

Understand the Loan Estimate

For many mortgages, the Loan Estimate is a standardized disclosure that helps consumers compare key loan terms and estimated costs.